Cruising Northern Europe

For a special summer cruise, consider sailing Northern Europe. During the long summer days, cruise ships visit ports on the Baltic Sea, along Norway’s mountainous coast and in the British Isles. When sailing the Baltic, the diverse ports of call often include Copenhagen, Denmark; Helsinki, Finland, St. Petersburg, Russia; and Tallinn, Estonia.

Copenhagen is situated where the North Sea meets the Baltic. Many of the city’s attractions are within easy walking distance of the cruise ship dock. You can see the famous statue of the Little Mermaid, as well as Tivoli Gardens and Stroget, a lively shopping street, with only the power of your own two feet.

As you approach Helsinki, your ship will wind around forested islands before docking right in the city. Visit the Esplanade, a tree-lined pedestrian boulevard, and take a break in one of the many sidewalk cafes. You can also take a tour of the city’s stunning modern architecture.

Tourism is structured in St. Petersburg, the city of the Czars. Visitors are required to stay with their guides, so there’s little opportunity to ramble on your own. Still, staying with your group is no impediment to seeing the incredible sights of this historic city: ornate palaces, churches with gilded onion-shaped domes and exquisite statues and fountains.

In Tallinn, gleaming modern skyscrapers overlook the walled, medieval old town. It’s fascinating to stroll along the narrow, cobbled streets, visiting churches, ancient towers, and delightful shops and restaurants.

Some Northern European cruises focus on sailing the spectacular fjords of Norway’s North Sea coast. Others begin or end in the British Isles, where you could visit Inverness, Edinburgh or London. You can also enjoy Northern Europe via a river cruise: for example, a cruise of Russia’s Volga River can take you to St. Petersburg, Moscow and the picturesque villages and towns in between.

Summer is the ideal time – and really, the only time – to cruise Northern Europe, so talk with Cruise Holidays soon.